Famous Italian Cyclists

Vincenzo Nibali is an Italian former professional road bicycle racer known for his versatility and success in both stage races and classic cycle races. With victories in all three Grand Tours – Vuelta a España, Giro d'Italia, and Tour de France – he has proven himself as one of the strongest stage race riders of his era. Nibali's nickname, "the Shark," reflects his aggressive racing style and exceptional skills as a descender, climber, and time trialist. He has also achieved notable wins in prestigious races like Tirreno–Adriatico and the Giro di Lombardia.

Marco Pantani was an Italian road racing cyclist known for his exceptional climbing abilities. He set records for the fastest climbs up iconic Tour de France venues like Mont Ventoux and Alpe d'Huez. Pantani was one of the few to win the Tour de France – Giro d'Italia double in 1998. His unique off-the-saddle and relentless climbing style earned him the nickname "Il Pirata" (The Pirate). Despite facing doping allegations throughout his career, Pantani's legacy remains as one of the greatest climbers in cycling history.

Gino Bartali was a champion road cyclist from Italy, known for his successes in prestigious races like the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France. Before World War II, he achieved significant victories, including winning the Giro d'Italia twice and the Tour de France once. Post-war, Bartali continued his success with additional wins in both events. Notably, he holds the record for the longest gap between Tour de France victories. Bartali was also honored for his courageous efforts in aiding Jews during World War II.

Mario Cipollini, also known as Cipo, is a retired Italian professional road cyclist celebrated for his exceptional sprinting prowess and long-lasting dominance in the sport. With a career spanning from 1988 to 2005, Cipollini amassed an impressive total of 170 professional wins, including criteriums. Revered as the top sprinter of his era, he earned nicknames such as "The Lion King" and "Super Mario." Some of his notable achievements include victories in the Road World Championships, Milan–San Remo, Giro d'Italia stages, Tour de France stages, and Vuelta a España stages.

Filippo Ganna is an accomplished Italian track and road cyclist currently representing UCI WorldTeam Ineos Grenadiers. He has achieved remarkable success in both track and road cycling, with numerous world championships and Olympic gold medals to his name. Ganna holds several world records, including in individual pursuit, team pursuit, and the hour record. He has also showcased his dominance in individual time trials, winning prestigious events such as the UCI Road World Championships and multiple stages in the Giro d'Italia. His career is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a consistent display of exceptional talent.

Elia Viviani is an accomplished Italian professional cyclist competing for UCI WorldTeam Ineos Grenadiers. He has achieved significant success in his career, including winning stages at the Giro d'Italia and earning gold and bronze medals in the omnium at the 2016 and 2020 Summer Olympics, respectively. Known as "Il Veggente" in the peloton, Viviani is respected for his tactical sprinting abilities and his knack for anticipating the moves of other sprinters during races.

Italian former professional road bicycle racer Ivan Basso rode for seven different teams between 1999 and 2015. Known as Ivan the Terrible, he excelled as a mountain rider and stage race competitor in the early 21st century. Basso is a two-time Giro d'Italia winner, triumphing in 2006 for Team CSC and again in 2010 for Liquigas–Doimo. Despite a suspension for admitted blood doping involvement in 2007, he returned to racing in 2008 and continued his successful career with notable victories.

Andrea Manfredi was an Italian cyclist who had a professional career spanning from 2013 to 2015. He competed for the team Bardiani–CSF during this time. After his professional stint, he joined the amateur team Palazzago in 2016. Manfredi's dedication to cycling was evident through his active participation at both professional and amateur levels. His contribution to the sport was notable, and he left a lasting impact on those who followed his career.

Felice Gimondi was an Italian professional racing cyclist known for his remarkable achievements in road cycling. He was nicknamed "The Phoenix" for his impressive comeback victories. Gimondi made history by winning all three Grand Tours of road cycling, along with three of the five Cycling monuments. Despite competing during the same era as cycling legend Eddy Merckx, Gimondi managed to secure numerous podium finishes in grand tours and solidify his status as one of the greatest cyclists of his time.

Fausto Coppi was a dominant Italian cyclist post-World War II, known as Il Campionissimo ("Champion of Champions"). He excelled in climbing, time trialing, and sprinting, winning the Giro d'Italia five times, the Tour de France twice, and the World Championship once. Coppi also secured victories in races like Giro di Lombardia, Milan–San Remo, Paris–Roubaix, and La Flèche Wallonne. His career highlights include setting the hour record in 1942. Coppi's versatility and numerous victories solidified his status as one of the greatest cyclists of his era.

Alessandro Petacchi is an Italian former professional road racing cyclist known for his sprinting abilities. He competed professionally from 1996 to 2015, earning 183 victories over his 18-year career. Petacchi achieved notable wins in grand tour stages, including the Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and Tour de France, as well as victories in classics like Milan-San Remo and Paris-Tours. Despite a ban for doping-related issues in 2007, he made a comeback in 2013 with different teams before retiring for good in 2015.

Fabio Aru is an Italian former professional road bicycle racer known for his climbing ability, making him a favorite for the Grand Tours. He rode for teams such as Astana, UAE Team Emirates, and Team Qhubeka NextHash. Aru won stages in all three Grand Tours and claimed victories in the Italian National Road Race Championships. He has worn the race leader's jersey in all three Grand Tours and achieved high overall placements in races like the Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a España, and Tour de France.

Paolo Bettini is a retired Italian road racing cyclist known for his exceptional skills in classics races. He achieved great success throughout his career, winning prestigious events such as the Liège–Bastogne–Liège, Milan–San Remo, and the Giro di Lombardia. Bettini also earned gold medals in the 2004 Athens Olympics road race and the 2006 and 2007 World Road Race Championships. His aggressive riding style and sprinting abilities earned him the nickname "Il Grillo" (the cricket). Bettini's impressive record includes victories in multiple World Cup events and stage races.

Francesco Moser, known as "Lo sceriffo" (The sheriff), was a dominant professional road bicycle racer from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s. He was a strong rider with a cultured pedaling style, excelling on flat terrain. Moser achieved significant success in prestigious races such as the Giro d'Italia, Tour de France, and various monuments. His 273 road victories place him among the top cyclists in history. Additionally, he showcased his talent as a track rider, participating in numerous Six-Day races and achieving notable success.

Aldo Moser was a renowned Italian cyclist known for his successful career in professional cycling. Throughout his time in the sport, Moser achieved significant accomplishments, earning a reputation as a skilled and dedicated athlete. He competed in numerous prestigious cycling events, showcasing his talent and determination on the race track. Moser's career was marked by notable victories and commendable performances, solidifying his place as a respected figure in the world of cycling. His contributions to the sport left a lasting impact on cycling enthusiasts and fellow athletes alike.

Italo De Zan was a renowned Italian racing cyclist known for his achievements in the sport. He notably clinched victory in stage 10 of the 1948 Giro d'Italia, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination. Throughout his professional career, De Zan left a lasting impact on the cycling world with his impressive performances and dedication to the sport. His legacy as a successful athlete is remembered and respected by cycling enthusiasts worldwide.

Davide Rebellin was an Italian professional road cyclist renowned for his success in classic races and stage events during his career spanning from 1992 to 2022. He achieved over sixty professional victories while riding for twelve different teams. Notably, Rebellin's 2004 season stood out as he accomplished a rare treble by winning the Amstel Gold Race, La Flèche Wallonne, and Liège–Bastogne–Liège. Despite a suspension for doping, his talent and accomplishments solidified his reputation as one of the top classics specialists of his generation.

Riccardo Riccò is an Italian professional road bicycle racer who faced multiple suspensions due to doping violations throughout his career. He was ejected from the 2008 Tour de France for doping and subsequently fired from his team in 2011 after falling seriously ill following a self-administered blood transfusion. Despite returning to competition, he was later suspended for 12 years in 2012, effectively bringing an end to his professional cycling career.

Marta Bastianelli is an Italian former professional racing cyclist who had a successful career spanning from 2006 to 2023. She achieved notable victories in prestigious events such as the women's road race at the 2007 UCI Road World Championships and the equivalent race at the 2018 European Road Cycling Championships. Bastianelli competed at a high level against top competitors like Marianne Vos and Giorgia Bronzini, showcasing her talent and determination in the sport. Throughout her career, she established herself as a respected and accomplished cyclist.

Davide Ballerini is an accomplished Italian cyclist currently riding for UCI WorldTeam Astana Qazaqstan Team. Since turning professional in 2017, he has secured victories in prestigious races such as the 2021 Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and the 2022 Coppa Bernocchi. Ballerini's impressive career also includes being the 2019 European Games gold medalist in the road race and winning a stage of the 2020 Tour de Pologne. With numerous achievements under his belt, Ballerini has proven himself as a formidable force in the competitive world of cycling.

Fabio Casartelli was an accomplished Italian cyclist known for his exceptional skills on the road. He achieved great success in his career, notably winning an Olympic gold medal. Tragically, his life was cut short during a fatal crash on the descent of the Col de Portet d'Aspet in France while competing in the 1995 Tour de France. Despite his untimely death, Casartelli's legacy as a talented and dedicated cyclist continues to be remembered and honored in the cycling community.

Giuseppe Saronni, also known as Beppe Saronni, is an Italian former racing cyclist with a successful career in the Giro d'Italia. He won a total of 24 stages in the race and achieved notable overall finishes in various editions. After retiring from cycling, Saronni transitioned into an advisory role for UCI WorldTeam UAE Team Emirates, where he utilizes his expertise and experience to contribute to the team's success and development in the competitive world of professional cycling.

Gianbattista Baronchelli is an Italian retired professional road racing cyclist who achieved a total of 94 victories in his career. Starting as an amateur, he quickly gained recognition by winning prestigious races such as the Tour de l'Avenir and the Baby Giro. His notable achievements include finishing second at the Giro d'Italia twice and winning the Giro di Lombardia twice. Baronchelli also had success at the World Championships and the Giro dell'Appenino, showcasing his talent and determination in the competitive world of cycling.

Alfredo Binda was a prominent Italian road cyclist during the 1920s and 1930s, known for his remarkable achievements in the sport. He made history by becoming the first cyclist to win five editions of the Giro d'Italia and securing three world championship titles. Binda's success extended beyond Italy, as he also clinched victories in prestigious races like Milan–San Remo and the Tour of Lombardy multiple times. His legacy as a cycling icon was further solidified when he later managed the Italian National team, guiding legendary cyclists such as Fausto Coppi, Gino Bartali, and Gastone Nencini to success at the Tour de France.

Gianni Bugno is a retired Italian professional road racing cyclist known for his successful career in the sport. Throughout his time as a professional cyclist, Bugno achieved numerous victories and accolades, establishing himself as one of the top competitors in the field. He displayed exceptional skill and endurance in various road racing events, earning a reputation for his strategic racing style and determination on the track. Bugno's contributions to the sport have left a lasting impact on the cycling community and inspired many aspiring athletes.

Wladimiro Panizza was a prominent Italian professional road bicycle racer known for his long and successful career from 1967 to 1985. Throughout his time in the sport, he provided valuable assistance to fellow cyclists Felice Gimondi and Franco Bitossi. Panizza achieved notable success in the 1980 Giro d'Italia, finishing in second place in the overall classification. He holds the impressive record for the most starts and completions in the Giro, having completed the race 16 times out of 18 starts.

Fiorenzo Magni was a renowned Italian professional road racing cyclist known for his exceptional career in the sport. Magni achieved great success during his tenure, winning multiple prestigious races and earning a reputation as a formidable competitor. He displayed remarkable skill and determination on the road, often showcasing his strength and tactical prowess in various cycling events. Magni's legacy in the cycling world is marked by his numerous victories and contributions to the sport, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in road racing.

Costante Girardengo was an Italian professional road bicycle racer known for his exceptional skills and achievements in the sport. He was the first cyclist to be hailed as a "Campionissimo" by the Italian media and fans, surpassing even Mussolini in popularity during the 1920s. Girardengo's career saw him win prestigious races like the Giro d'Italia, Milan-San Remo, and Giro di Lombardia multiple times. Despite challenges like World War I, he maintained his dominance in Italian cycling, earning the title of World's number one cyclist several times.

Elisa Longo Borghini is an accomplished Italian professional road cyclist currently riding for UCI Women's WorldTeam Lidl–Trek. Throughout her career, she has achieved significant success, including winning the Giro d'Italia Women in 2024. Longo Borghini has also secured bronze medals in the road race at the Summer Olympic Games and the UCI Road World Championships. Notably, she has triumphed in prestigious cycling events such as the Tour of Flanders and Paris–Roubaix Femmes, showcasing her talent and determination on the international stage.

Franco Bitossi is a renowned Italian former professional cyclist known for his successful career in the sport. Throughout his cycling career, Bitossi achieved numerous victories and accolades, showcasing his exceptional talent and determination on the road. He competed in various prestigious races and championships, demonstrating his strength and skill as a cyclist. Bitossi's impressive performances and consistent success solidified his reputation as one of the top cyclists of his time, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of professional cycling.

Damiano Cunego is an Italian former professional road racing cyclist known for his successful career spanning from 2002 to 2018. He rode for teams such as Saeco, Lampre-Merida, and Nippo-Vini Fantini-Europa Ovini. Cunego achieved major victories including the 2004 Giro d'Italia, the 2008 Amstel Gold Race, and multiple Giro di Lombardia wins. While primarily a climber, he honed his time-trialing skills and displayed remarkable sprinting abilities. Cunego's notable achievements include second-place finishes in the UCI Road World Championships and the 2008 UCI ProTour.

Francesco Casagrande had a successful career as a professional road racing cyclist from 1992 to 2005. He was known for his exceptional climbing abilities and aggressive riding style. Casagrande competed in various prestigious races such as the Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, and Vuelta a España, achieving several stage victories and high overall placements. He was also a consistent performer in one-day classics and hilly races, earning him a reputation as a strong all-around cyclist during his time in the professional cycling circuit.

Maurizio Fondriest had an illustrious career as an Italian professional road racing cyclist. Known for his exceptional skills and endurance, Fondriest achieved numerous victories throughout his career. He was particularly successful in one-day races and classics, showcasing his ability to excel in various terrains and conditions. Fondriest's tactical racing acumen and strong sprinting capabilities set him apart from his competitors, allowing him to secure victories in prestigious races. His legacy in the cycling world remains significant, inspiring many aspiring cyclists.

Giorgia Bronzini is an accomplished Italian former professional racing cyclist known for her success on both the road and the track. Throughout her career from 2003 to 2017, she secured numerous victories in prestigious events such as the UCI Road World Championships and the UCI Track Cycling World Championships. Bronzini's impressive record includes wins in prominent races like the Giro d'Italia Femminile, La Route de France, and the Tour of Qatar. After retiring in 2018, she transitioned into a role as a directeur sportif for women's cycling teams, contributing her expertise to Trek–Segafredo and later Liv Racing–Xstra.

Claudio Chiappucci is a retired Italian professional cyclist known for his success in the Tour de France. He achieved podium finishes three times in the general classification, finishing second in 1990, third in 1991, and second again in 1992. Chiappucci was known for his aggressive riding style and ability to perform well in mountainous terrain. He gained a reputation as a strong contender in Grand Tours and was a popular figure among cycling fans during his career.

Learco Guerra was an Italian professional road racing cyclist known for his enduring qualities in plain stages. He began his cycling career in 1928 and quickly rose to success, becoming the Italian champion in 1929. Guerra won multiple Italian National Road Race Championships and achieved notable victories in races like the Giro d'Italia and Milan-San Remo. He also excelled internationally, winning four stages of the Giro d'Italia and the world cycling championship in 1931. Guerra's record-breaking victories and contributions as a team manager solidified his legacy in the cycling world.

Fabiana Luperini is an accomplished Italian professional cyclist known for her numerous victories in prestigious races. She holds the record for winning the Giro d'Italia Femminile five times and the Grande Boucle Féminine Internationale three times consecutively. Luperini also claimed victories in the Tour de l'Aude Cycliste Féminin in 1998 and the Iurreta-Emakumeen Bira in 2006. Her successful career spanned nearly two decades before she retired in 2014, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of women's cycling.

Michele Dancelli is an accomplished Italian former road racing cyclist known for his impressive victories. Throughout his career, he achieved significant success with notable wins such as the Milan–San Remo in 1970, the Flèche Wallonne in 1966, and multiple editions of the Giro dell'Appennino and Trofeo Laigueglia. Dancelli's talent was further highlighted by his triumphs in various stages of prestigious races like the Giro d'Italia and Tour de France, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and competitive cyclist.

Italo Zilioli is a retired Italian professional cyclist known for his successful career in the sport. He achieved victories in 58 races, with notable wins such as the 1966 Züri-Metzgete and 5 stage wins at the Giro d'Italia. Zilioli consistently performed well at the Giro, securing top 5 finishes six times and standing on the podium four times. His career highlight includes winning a stage and the Yellow jersey at the 1970 Tour de France, although he later yielded the jersey to teammate Eddy Merckx. Today, Zilioli is involved in the Giro d'Italia, overseeing stage starts.

Nino Defilippis was a highly successful Italian road bicycle racer known for his achievements in various prestigious races such as the Giro di Lombardia, Giro d'Italia, Tour de France, and Vuelta a España. He excelled in both stage victories and overall classifications, demonstrating his versatility and skill as a cyclist. Defilippis also clinched titles in the mountains classification and the Italian National Road Race Championship, solidifying his reputation as a formidable competitor in the cycling world during the 1950s.

Pierino Gavazzi, an Italian former road bicycle racer, had a successful professional career spanning from 1973 to 1993. He participated in prestigious cycling events such as the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia. Throughout his career, Gavazzi achieved notable victories, including winning four stages in the Giro d'Italia and claiming the title at the 1980 Milan-San Remo. His skills and achievements solidified his reputation as a talented and competitive cyclist on both the national and international cycling circuits.